Todd Lantz

June 8, 1965 - April 12, 2022

Todd Edward Lantz was born June 8th, 1965 to proud parents, Tommy Lantz (deceased) and Barbara Becker (Mike), in the great state of Indiana. Surrounded by loving grandparents, aunts, and uncles, Todd spent his early years in a busy household filled with his siblings, Kristi Lantz, Jeff Lantz (Deb) and Troy Lantz (Tamara). Todd enjoyed all the perks of being a midwestern kid raised in the 1970s: drinking out of the spigot on hot days, riding bikes, playing outside and coming home only when he was hungry, or the streetlights came on. Like most Indiana boys, Todd was given a basketball at birth and excelled at the game. In his free time, he could be found shooting free throws or dominating a pick-up game. He loved the sport. Todd was an outstanding student, maintaining excellent grades while cultivating a very steady and active social life. After graduating high school, he joined the United States Army. Throughout his life, he wore his Military Police crossed pistols with pride. Todd would credit his 3 years in the military, along with a tenacious drill sargent, for redirecting his mindset to one of discipline and order. He was honorably discharged and continued serving his country 3 more years in the National Guard. Todd is, was and always will be a proud and patriotic American. Moving to Sarasota to be closer to his mom, Todd graduated from the Sarasota Police Academy. His experience at the Academy prepared him to be a talented and dedicated police officer and introduced him to lifelong, dependable friends. Todd joined the Sarasota Police Department in 1987, and whether he was a rookie jumping fences on the midnight shift, or a seasoned officer walking the beat and drinking coffee on Main Street, Todd loved and respected the job for nearly 29 years. He was proud of what the uniform stood for and was proud to serve his community. During this time, Todd fell in love with and married Tina Eichele Lantz. Together they built a life full of children, boat trips, tiki bars, love and laughter- all while pursuing and building life dreams. Tina predeceased Todd on October 12th, 2009. In 2015, Todd began the next chapter of his life when he married Jennifer Gaffney Lantz. Together they brought to fruition lifelong dreams and goals, side by side, best friends and forever in love. Todd and Jennifer spent every possible moment together, devoted and dedicated to each other beyond compare. If love is patient and kind, then love is Jennifer and Todd. Todd’s greatest accomplishments are his children: Kyle Lantz-Anderson IA, Morgan Jordan-Shelbyville TN, Tiffany Jenkins (Drew)-Sarasota, Paris Okeson (Mel)-Sarasota, Ryan Lantz-Northport, Amanda Ruehr (Sean, USAF)-Shreveport LA along with bonus children, Chelsea Clarkson (Tim)-Arcadia and Matthew van der Mije-Sarasota. Todd’s pride and joy are his 12.5 grandchildren who filled his heart with love, brought smiles to his face and provided endless laughter to his soul. The Lantz family would like to express their appreciation to Winship Cancer Center at Emory University Hospital, Decatur Georgia. Extra special love and heartfelt gratitude goes to Dr. Jackie Brown for being an angel when we needed one, to Greta Russler for taking great care of us and to Nurse Kay who always made us feel safe and at home. Finally to all the Emory staff that padded our journey with comfort and care along the way, thank you! Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand. May your journey be swift and find you safe inside the gates of heaven a half hour before the devil knows your dead.☘ A celebration of life is planned for April 19 at Trinity United Methodist, 4150 S. Shade, Sarasota at 11 am.